Milagros Miceli, an Argentine sociologist and computer engineering doctor, discusses the implications of AI on the workforce, highlighting that it is creating numerous low-paid jobs rather than replacing existing positions.
Milagros Miceli, a sociologist and computer science PhD residing in Germany, recently gained international recognition after being named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential figures in AI, alongside tech giants like Mark Zuckerberg and Sam Altman. She expressed her surprise not only at her inclusion in this prestigious list, being the first Argentine to achieve such a distinction, but also at the extensive attention it garnered back home, highlighting the significance of her work which stands in contrast to many of her peers in the same list.
Her research aims to shed light on the often-overlooked aspects of the AI industry, particularly focusing on who works behind the scenes to make AI function effectively, and under what conditions these individuals labor. Miceli takes a nuanced approach, countering the prevailing narrative that AI will lead to massive job losses. Instead, she argues that while AI does not necessarily eliminate jobs, it tends to create a slew of poorly compensated positions, raising questions about labor rights and economic inequality in this evolving landscape.
As AI continues to grow, Miceli’s insights are crucial for understanding the complex relationship between technology and employment. Her emphasis on the human element behind AI development encourages a broader discourse on how society values work, the conditions under which it is performed, and the implications for the future workforce. In doing so, Miceli not only challenges popular assumptions but also advocates for a more equitable approach to the integration of AI in various sectors.
